Yamaha EL-87 Owner's Manual - Page 116

(3) Step Write and Real Time Write There are two different methods you can use to program rhythms: Step Write and Real Time Write. Step Write allows you to enter percussion sounds as individual note values. As a method, it is very similar to writing down the notes on a sheet of music paper; each note is entered one at a time, and though you can hear each individual note entered, you cannot actually hear the pattern playing as you create it. Real Time Write on the other hand, is similar to using a multitrack tape recorder; you can hear previously recorded parts of the pattern as you record new parts on top. Each method has its own advantages and uses. Step Write is good for precision and for entering percussion sounds whose note placement and rhythmic value has been determined, such as a bass drum that plays every beat in a measure. Real Time Write is best for capturing the "feel" of a rhythm, because it allows you to actually play the pattern as you are creating it. Which method you use depends partly on the type of rhythm you intend to create and partly on your own personal preference. You can even switch between the two methods in editing to create a single rhythm by the use of both methods. This would come in handy, for example, in programming the basic beats of a rhythm with Step Write, then using Real Time Write to add percussion accents and embellishments. (4) Selecting Step Write or Real Time Write Operation Step Write and Real Time Write can be selected from either the BEAT/ QUANTIZE page or the EDIT page. Which mode of operation is selected depends on the play status of the rhythm. If the rhythm is stopped, Step Write is automatically selected. If the rhythm is playing, Real Time Write is selected. Simply press the START button in the Rhythm section on the panel to start or stop the rhythm and switch between the two modes. (5) Setting the Beat/Quantize Values The BEAT/QUANTIZE page is automatically displayed when calling up the Rhythm Pattern Program. It is used in both Step Write and Real Time Write for selecting the basic timing settings of the pattern. 112